Ducks Attack Message Board Forum

Is he a good coach? Or are we just hiring Dames buddy, to make him happy? And hoping he can attract some FA?

buckmarkduck wrote:Is he a good coach? Or are we just hiring Dames buddy, to make him happy? And hoping he can attract some FA?

He was a head coach for about 5 minutes and was terrible. From what I've read Olshey has liked him since he played for the clippers, and Lillard's endorsement was the nudge needed. Basically the interview process was just for show.

buckmarkduck wrote:Is he a good coach?

He's only had one year as an assistant with the Clips. His leadership qualities seem to be highly regarded. Time will tell if he's decent. Hopefully they can surround him with a nice staff like the Nets did with Nash.

It does seem had the Blazers passed on Billups then someone else was likely going to hire him.

Boom wrote:

buckmarkduck wrote:Is he a good coach?

He's only had one year as an assistant with the Clips. His leadership qualities seem to be highly regarded. Time will tell if he's decent. Hopefully they can surround him with a nice staff like the Nets did with Nash.

Looks like you're right. For some reason I thought he's been a head coach too

I don't think the Blazers were ever going to get a top coach, since their current situation with the salary cap will preclude them from having a contending team for the foreseeable future. Anyone coming in has to know that they will be presiding over a decline and will likely be blamed for that decline. So that leaves coaches just looking for any opportunity, coaches trying to break into the ranks (like the women candidates) or coaches who are 'damaged goods'. Lots of people talking about a rape charge from 24 years ago, and maybe that is why Billups was willing to take this gig rather than a better one. If he can get some solid experience as a head coach in Portland, he will be a de facto member of the club and eligible for other opportunities.